CMCS signs MoU with buildingSmart ME to broaden use of Building Information Modeling in MENA region

Published July 4th, 2010 - 08:28 GMT
Al Bawaba
Al Bawaba

Collaboration, Management and Control Solutions (CMCS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with buildingSMART ME (BSAME), the MENA Chapter of the globally recognized building and construction standards body buildingSMART International, to promote greater use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) solutions across the MENA region.

BIM refers to the process of generating and managing building data using virtual 3D digital models during the building lifecycle (i.e. during design, construction and operations) It typically uses 3D, real-time, dynamic building modeling software to enhance building design and construction and has emerged as a valuable project and construction management tool. A number of key developments in the Middle East such as Abu Dhabi's Capital Gate, the world's furthest leaning manmade tower, have been designed using BIM software. However, few developers in the region are well-versed or even familiar with the modeling technique.

Under the terms of the MoU, CMCS becomes a BSAME member and will assist the body in encouraging the use of BIM in its covered territories. BSAME will provide in-house BIM training to CMCS and its MENA and India clients through its BIM Support Bureau (BSB).

"BIM is a very powerful tool and yet it is not widely used in the region. Through our partnership with BSAME we have the opportunity to encourage the use of BIM and consequently raise the quality of MENA building and construction standards. We also value BSAME's role in setting global construction technology standards and hope that we can make significant contributions in this regard as a member," said Bassam Samman, CEO and Founder, CMCS.

BIM simulates the actual parts and pieces used in building structures, as opposed to the traditional use of computer-aided drafting. It enables contractors and engineers to reduce costs and cut down the time needed to complete detailed design. BIM enhances quality by minimizing mistakes, improving build capabilities and decision making, and supporting compliance with sustainability requirements that are becoming stricter across the Middle East.

"We recognize the importance of selecting proven project management consultants and training institutions to spread awareness of the potential of BIM in construction , which is why we chose CMCS as our regional partner. Through CMCS' extensive international presence we hope to enlighten more contractors, developers, engineers and architects on the increased design and construction efficiencies offered by BIMbased solutions," added Mr. Tahir Sharif President buildingSMART ME.

Collaboration, Management and Control Solutions provides Project Portfolio and Risk Management Information System solutions to help organizations ensure the success of their project delivery. The company uses state-of-the-art products from Oracle Primavera, Hard Dollar, Deltek, EcoSys, ADePT, eTimeMachine, and Synchro to build knowledge, transfer tools and techniques, and develop skills.